Career Guidance For Architect

By Author: Anuradha Satyanarayana
Total Articles: 8
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Architecture is the study which deals with planning and designing of building and structures. Architects use the available space to its maximum in the given budget and they also see to it that it fulfill all the requirements. The work of an architect includes building of houses, multi storied high rise building, stadiums, roads, bridges, parks, dams etc. The architect must have the skill to strike a balance between the aesthetics as well as the technical aspects of it.
Initially architects work as assistants to established architects where they are responsible for researching zoning regulations, working with subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, etc.), and drafting plans, either manually or with computer assistance. After a few years as they gain experience, they start designing parts of a building where they have to be in constant touch with the contractor and ensure that the construction is taking place as per the plans. Later as established architects they actually to design and plan buildings as the lead architect.
Eligibility and Duration:
Entry to the course is after 10+2, provided ...
... you have opted for mathematics at the plus two level and must have scored a minimum 50% aggregate. The B. Arch is a 5 year course. Further on completion of the graduate course, the post-graduate awards offered are the Masters degree (M.Arch.), the PG diploma and the Ph.D.
Aptitudes and personality traits:

Academically good background in physics and mathematics 
Imaginative and creative with a bent towards designing 
An awareness of social and environmental factors 
Physical stamina to work on the desk as well on the site 
Good concentration level 
Flexibility
Patience 
Good communication skills 
Team spirit 
Observant attitude

Selection Procedure/Exams:
There are a number of National and State level entrance examinations a student could appear for to get admitted to first year of five years full time undergraduate course in Architecture (Bachelor of Architecture) in various colleges of India. Following are some of the important exams a student can appear for:

MH-ARC-CET 
AIEEE 
IIT-JEE 
NATA 
MH-AR-CET 
MASA 
GATE

Specializations:
After completion of B.Arch degree one can specialize in urban designing, regional planning, building engineering and management, architectural conservation, industrial design, landscape architecture, naval architecture, architecture concerning traffic and transport planning etc.
Future Prospects:
Employment opportunities for architects are available in government as well as private sectors. In the private sector they have openings with the builders, architecture firms, and consultants etc. With some years of work experience they can even set up their own business as Consultants and Contractors. Some of the government organizations that absorb architects include Public Works Department, the Archaeological Department, Ministry of Defence, Departments of Railways, National Building Construction Corporation Ltd., City Development Authorities etc.